The Pixel Buds Pro 2 represent Google’s ongoing commitment to compete with established headphone manufacturers like Sony and Apple in the premium True Wireless segment. Building upon the previous model (which garnered mixed reviews), the Pixel Buds Pro 2 incorporate several key enhancements, including a new Tensor A1 chip, improved active noise cancellation (ANC), and integrated AI assistance via Gemini. Google aims to position the Pixel Buds Pro 2 as a central component within its ecosystem. This review provides an in-depth analysis of their performance.
Design and Comfort
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 feature a redesigned form factor compared to their predecessors. A reduction of 27% in size and 24% in weight, while seemingly incremental, translates to a more comfortable listening experience, particularly during extended use. With each earbud weighing only 4.7 grams and the charging case a mere 65 grams, portability is a key strength.
Google emphasized ergonomic design, analyzing data from over 45 million ears to optimize the fit for a broad range of users. The inclusion of four ear tip sizes (XS, S, M, L) facilitates a secure and comfortable seal. The new “twist-to-adjust” mechanism allows users to rotate the earbuds for enhanced stability, especially during physical activities like exercise or running. This feature proves effective, providing a noticeably more secure fit compared to the previous generation, thanks to the addition of a small wing for intra-ear retention.
The charging case retains the signature egg-shaped design, now featuring a matte finish instead of the slightly glossier surface of the previous iteration. It supports both wireless charging and USB-C connectivity. Its relatively compact size and rounded form factor ensure pocketability. A notable addition is integration with Google’s “Find My Device” network, incorporating a built-in speaker that emits a signal to aid in locating the case.
Sound Quality
Each earbud houses an 11 mm dynamic driver, working in conjunction with the Tensor A1 chip to deliver a balanced and full sound profile. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 exhibit a warm sonic signature, with emphasis on bass and the vocal range, making them well-suited for podcasts and bass-heavy genres like hip hop and electronic music. However, with more intricate musical styles such as classical or jazz, the soundstage can exhibit a degree of midrange muddiness and lack the detailed resolution offered by some competing premium headphones.
Users can customize the audio output via the equalizer within the dedicated Pixel Buds app, offering a selection of presets or the ability to create personalized sound profiles.
For users who prefer granular control over their audio settings, the app’s customization options may not be as extensive as those offered by some competitors.
It is worth noting that active noise cancellation (ANC) does influence the sound. Engaging ANC results in a slightly more closed-in soundstage, a characteristic common to most noise-canceling headphones. Despite this, the sonic image remains surprisingly open and balanced, particularly in the bass frequencies.
Noise Cancellation and Ambient Sound
The active noise cancellation is a primary strength of the Pixel Buds Pro 2. Powered by the Tensor A1 chip, the headphones analyze and adapt to the surrounding sound environment at a rate of up to 3 million times per second, enabling effective and adaptive noise reduction. This technology significantly attenuates ambient noise, particularly in the midrange frequencies, effectively mitigating distractions such as traffic sounds or office background noise.
The noise cancellation functionality offers a binary choice: on, transparency mode, or off, without granular level adjustments.
The transparency mode, which allows external sounds to pass through, performs exceptionally well. In fact, it may be the most natural-sounding ambient mode currently available, providing such a seamless auditory experience that users may forget they are wearing headphones. This facilitates effortless conversations and environmental awareness without the need to remove the earbuds.
The headphones also feature automatic call detection, which automatically pauses music playback and activates transparency mode when the user begins speaking.
User Experience and AI Features
Google has integrated the Pixel Buds Pro 2 deeply within its broader product and service ecosystem, evident in their seamless interoperability with other Google devices. The headphones are optimized for Android, particularly Google’s Pixel devices. Pixel phone users gain access to exclusive features like “Clear Calling,” designed to enhance call clarity by filtering out background noise.
Another addition is the integration of Google Gemini, an AI assistant enabling hands-free conversations directly through the headphones via the “Hey Google, let’s talk” command. This offers a more intuitive interaction with the assistant, though its current functionality is limited to English and cannot handle complex tasks such as sending messages or making calls.
The Pixel Buds app provides additional features, including equalizer adjustments and the “Silent Seal 2.0” ear tip fit test. This ensures a snug and optimal fit, particularly when using noise cancellation.
A “wellness” feature monitors sound levels, alerting users if they are exposed to excessively high volumes for prolonged periods.
Battery Life and Charging
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 offer respectable battery life. With ANC enabled, they provide up to 8 hours of listening time, extending to 12 hours with ANC disabled. The charging case provides a total of 30 hours of playback with ANC and up to 48 hours without. A 5-minute charge in the case yields 1.5 hours of listening time. The charging case supports both wireless charging and USB-C connectivity.
Connectivity and Codec Support
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 incorporate Bluetooth 5.4, ensuring stable and reliable connectivity over extended ranges. They also support multipoint connectivity, enabling simultaneous connection to two devices.
Regarding audio codecs, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 support the standard SBC and AAC codecs. However, they lack support for more advanced codecs like aptX or LDAC, an omission that may be notable considering their price point.
Conclusion
The Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 represent a significant improvement over their predecessor, offering enhanced noise cancellation, commendable sound quality, an improved fit, and extended battery life.
However, the pricing presents a challenge. With a suggested retail price of 2,990 SEK, they compete directly with established players like Apple’s AirPods Pro and Sony’s WF-1000XM5 in a highly competitive market segment. At a price point of 1,500–2,000 SEK, they would represent a compelling value proposition. Currently, they are best suited for consumers who are less price-sensitive and desire seamless integration with the Android ecosystem, particularly those using Pixel phones.
Google provided review units for this evaluation. The provision of materials does not influence our editorial process. We maintain an independent and objective perspective, prioritizing the interests of our readers and consumers.
